President Patil congratulates new Russian President

New Delhi, May 8 : President Pratibha Devisingh Patil has congratulated on behalf of the people of India Dmitry A. Medvedev on assuming the office of the President of the Russian Federation.

In her congratulatory message to the President of the Russian Federation, President Patil said, "India and Russia enjoy longstanding and time-tested ties of friendship and cooperation extending over a wide-range of areas. We would look forward to your support and advice to further broaden and deepen the strategic partnership between our two countries."

"This year, we are holding the 'Year of Russia' in India marked by events in various facets of life. It would be our honour and pleasure to receive you in India later this year," she added.

The President also conveyed her best wishes for the health and success of the Russian President and for the peace and prosperity of the people of the Russian Federation.